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Plain of Jars, Xieng Khouang

Laos

Why the Plain of Jars, Xieng Khouang?

A mysterious and truly remarkable site

Xieng Khouang and the enigmatic Plain of Jars make up one of the most important sites for prehistoric study in Southeast Asia. Besides this historical site, there are beautiful waterfalls and trekking opportunities nearby, and the chance to learn about how the war affected the people at the UXO Centre.

xieng khouang laos

Xieng Khouang Highlights

Here we have selected a few of the sights and experiences that you really should see on a visit to Xieng Khouang.

Plain of Jars, Xieng Khouang, Laos

Plain of Jars

Northeast of Vientiane lies the mysterious and enigmatic display called the Plain of Jars. Here you will discover three sites holding clusters of jars carved out of sandstone and granite. The Jars are scattered across the fields which make for a truly remarkable and unique sight. Nobody is totally sure what their purpose was and why they ended up in this part of Laos, but they vary in shape and size, and their positions differ from one to the next. Allegedly over 2000 years old, The Plain of Jars can be reached via the small and quiet town of Phonsavan.

Plain of Jars, Xieng Khouang, Laos

Piu Cave (Tham Piu)

Tham Piu is one of the tragedies of the Indochina War and stands as a solemn memorial to the 374 innocent villagers that were killed by a single US missile attack in 1968. They were taking refuge in the cave when the shell hit. On the way up to the cave, you can offer incense and pay tribute to the dead at the shrine. Along the way are grave markets, bomb craters, and a large golden Buddha.

Plain of Jars, Xieng Khouang, Laos

Kha Waterfall

The Kha Waterfall in Nong Het district, near Khang Phanieng Village, is nestled in spectacular limestone karst cliffs and cascades in steps for more than 100m, alternating with steep falls.

Plain of Jars, Xieng Khouang, Laos

Napia Spoon Village

Near Jar Site 2, Ban Napia and surrounding villages have been producing spoons using the scrap metals from downed aircraft and shrapnel that litter their fields. The creative villages have been recycling the war junk for over 30 years, feeding diners and fulfilling a supply shortage in nearby markets.

A selection of tours to Xieng Khouang

  • Luang Prabang Wat Xieng Thong Laos
    Laos Tailor Made City

    Discover Laos

    Discover Laos with this fascinating itinerary

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